English Muffin Bread Recipe (Serve with Tea)

Flour: The base of the bread, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps activate the yeast.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.

Active dry yeast: Essential for the bread to rise and achieve its airy texture.

Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the bread.

Water: Helps to activate the yeast and combine the ingredients.

Cornmeal: Used for dusting the loaf pan, giving the bread its characteristic texture and preventing sticking.

When mixing the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast with the warmed milk and water, ensure that the liquids are at the right temperature. The ideal temperature for activating yeast is between 105°F and 115°F (40°C to 46°C). If the liquids are too hot, they can kill the yeast, preventing the bread from rising properly. Use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature for best results.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may result in a denser texture.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and adds moisture to the bread.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can offer a slightly different flavor profile and contains trace minerals.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be mixed directly with dry ingredients and may reduce rising time.

• warmed milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that can be used for those with lactose intolerance.

• warmed water - Substitute with coconut water: Coconut water adds a subtle sweetness and extra nutrients.

• cornmeal - Substitute with semolina: Semolina provides a similar texture and can be used for dusting to prevent sticking.

• Allow the English muffin bread to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation and sogginess.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.
• Place the wrapped loaf in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This adds an extra layer of protection against air and moisture.
• Store the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the bread. Slice the loaf before freezing for easy portioning.
• To freeze, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper. This makes it convenient to thaw only what you need.
• Place the wrapped slices in a resealable freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the bag with the date to keep track of its freshness. The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw slices at room temperature or toast them directly from the freezer. This brings back the crispy texture and flavor.
• For a delightful treat, serve the thawed or toasted slices with a spread of butter or jam, and pair with a warm cup of tea.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the English muffin bread in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• For a quick method, slice the English muffin bread and toast it in a toaster or toaster oven. This will give it a nice crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft.

• If you prefer a softer texture, place slices of the English muffin bread on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check and add more time if needed.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil. Place slices of the English muffin bread in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until warmed and slightly crispy.

• If you have a steamer, you can steam slices of the English muffin bread for a few minutes until they are warm and soft. This method retains moisture and gives a fresh-baked feel.

• Oven: Used to bake the bread at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Loaf pan: The container in which the bread batter is poured and baked.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the dry and wet ingredients.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the flour, sugar, and milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt, sugar, and yeast precisely.

• Whisk: Useful for mixing the dry ingredients together evenly.

• Spatula: Helps in scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

• Towel: Used to cover the loaf pan while the batter rises.

• Cooling rack: Allows the bread to cool evenly after baking.

• Cornmeal: Used for dusting the loaf pan to prevent sticking and add texture to the crust.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all flour, sugar, salt, and yeast before starting. This makes the mixing process quicker.

Warm liquids together: Warm the milk and water together in the microwave to save time.

Use a stand mixer: If you have a stand mixer, use it to combine the dry ingredients and liquids quickly and efficiently.

Quick rise method: Place the loaf pan in a slightly warm oven (around 100°F) to speed up the rising process.

Cool on a rack: Use a cooling rack to cool the bread faster before slicing.